Simone Zaza, brought in on loan from Juventus with a view to a £25million deal, has been a bitter disappointment and it would come as no surprise to see the Hammers try and sign a centre forward in January.

Manager Slaven Bilic has started without a recognised striker in their last two matches – the League Cup win over Chelsea and the defeat to Everton at Goodison Park.

However, any hopes of signing Lacazette to ease their troubles look to be fading as Aulas makes a move to tie down his star man.

Lyon are sitting eighth in Ligue 1 but Lacazette has netted a total of nine goals in his nine appearances in all competitions this season.

Aulas confirmed: “I would like for us to be able to extend Alexandre’s contract.”

The Hammers have also been linked with a move for Napoli’s Marco Gabbiadini on Tuesday.

AND THE REST

Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino is still interested in Real Madrid star Isco despite the Spaniard’s recent run in the side (Daily Mirror)